Choosing a TEC provider

Some tips on choosing a Technology Enabled Care provider

Look for a quality mark

When sourcing a service provider, our recommendation is to choose a TEC Quality certified organisation. TEC Quality is the organisation set up to develop and run the Quality Standards Framework (QSF) - a set of outcome based standards developed in partnership with key stakeholders across the TEC sector. If you want to know more about QSF then click here.

Check with your local council

Check with your Local Authority if you are entitled to funding for a home care service – if you are in receipt of certain benefits then you may be able to obtain support free of charge. You can call your local council or contact them online – ask or look for their Social Services or Housing department.

Don’t get fooled by cold-callers

Do not accept services from people who ring you unexpectedly, unless you have already been in touch with them. TSA have been made aware of several incidences where vulnerable members of the public have been targeted by companies offering telecare services or claiming to have taken over the local telecare provision. They go on to request bank account and personal details. You can report any untoward approach of this nature to Citizens Advice on
03454 04 05 06 or contact the Friends Against Scams campaign

FRIENDS AGAINST SCAMS WEBSITE

Do your research

Check to see if the organisation you are considering has been given good quality, independent reviews. Don’t simply trust the reviews on their own website as these could be fictitious – look on independent review sites, forums and blogs.

Look beyond page 1 of Google and try searching a company name followed by terms like ‘issues’ or ‘problems’ as this will highlight anything untoward. Bear in mind that even reputable companies can encounter issues, so look for swift and satisfactory resolutions. Check for comments on social media channels too, most TEC providers use Facebook and Twitter.

Contact the TSA

Check with us to see if we have any information on the organisation you are considering. You can use the search function below, if that does not show anyone in your area or the provider you are considering then simply give us a call on 01625 520320 or email admin@tsa-voice.org.uk

If all else fails

There are laws about nuisance calling, and people can elect to be listed as not wishing to receive unsolicited sales calls via www.tpsonline.org.uk

Ofcom have specific advice regarding telesales calls here www.ofcom.org.uk

The Information Commissioner’s Office have avenues for complaint regarding nuisance calls and messages – their website has lots of helping guidance ico.org.uk

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